"No good deed goes unpunished." Nigel Ely joins the H-Hour podcast to share his incredible journey from SAS veteran to war journalist. He recounts his daring escapades, including acquiring a chunk of Saddam Hussein’s statue, navigating the chaos of the Iraq invasion, and the bizarre aftermath back in the UK. The episode also delves into the psychological and social dynamics among Falklands War veterans, the intricacies of military culture, and Nigel's upcoming book projects. A compelling conversation filled with personal anecdotes and profound insights into the life of a soldier and journalist.

Follow Nigel via his website https://www.nigelely.com/ and via his Instagram profile: https://www.instagram.com/nigel_ely/ You can also find his book Bring Me The Arse of Saddam at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bring-Arse-Saddam-Nigel-Ely/dp/0995660506/

"I respect the Argentinians. I can't say I forgive them. It's been 40 odd years and I still can't," This icebreaker is the lead into the full conversation with Nigel, a veteran of 22SAS and 2 Para, who discusses the peculiar journey of Saddam's artifacts, including the challenges of auctioning Saddam Hussein's butter sculpture. He details the interest from major networks like Netflix and Sky for a TV series adaptation and highlights his personal legal troubles related to the artifact under UN sanctions. Nigel also touches on military culture, training hardships, the dynamics within units post-combat tours, and the psychological impact on soldiers. The discussion covers personal encounters with violence during training, interactions with former enemies, and the profound effects of combat on soldiers' mental health.

Follow Nigel via his website https://www.nigelely.com/ and via his Instagram profile: https://www.instagram.com/nigel_ely/ You can also find his book Bring Me The Arse of Saddam at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bring-Arse-Saddam-Nigel-Ely/dp/0995660506/

"Filled with challenging questions and profound insights, Anna's episode is a must-listen for those interested in global politics, ethics, and strategies for activism."

Anna Stavrianakis and I dive deep into the murky waters of the international arms trade and its corollaries in a multifaceted discussion for H-Hour #256. We explore moral and political dimensions, scrutinize British arms export policies, and engage in debate on corruption and racism in global arms dealings. The conversation also touches on the implications of military-industrial complexes, corruption, and the geopolitical dynamics involving major powers.

Follow Anna and Shadow World Investigations at these links:

https://shadowworldinvestigations.org/

https://x.com/stavrianakisa

https://profiles.sussex.ac.uk/p200527-anna-stavrianakis

This icebreaker is the lead into the full into the full conversation Anna who researches and teaches on the international arms trade, UK arms export policy, international arms transfer control, and militarism and security in North-South perspective. She often works in collaboration with civil society organisations, social movements, journalists and parliamentarians, and engages publicly on arms trade issues.

Follow Anna and Shadow World Investigations at these links:

https://shadowworldinvestigations.org/

https://x.com/stavrianakisa

https://profiles.sussex.ac.uk/p200527-anna-stavrianakis

Chris Branch joins Hugh on H-Hour to discuss the mental and physical benefits of ultra running, sharing insights from personal experiences and professional expertise as an osteopath. He covers topics such as the transformative power of running on mental health, effective training strategies, and overcoming common running injuries. Chris also delves into the importance of nutrition, the role of resilience in achieving long-term fitness goals, and how to optimise performance. With engaging anecdotes about races, the impact of diet on mental well-being, and practical advice for runners at all levels, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in ultra running and attaining a balanced lifestyle. You can find Chris's YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisBranch

This is the Icebreaker episode, with questions chosen by H-Hour Platinum Subscribers and Patrons.

Chris Branch joins Hugh on H-Hour to discuss the mental and physical benefits of ultra running, sharing insights from personal experiences and professional expertise as an osteopath. He covers topics such as the transformative power of running on mental health, effective training strategies, and overcoming common running injuries. Chris also delves into the importance of nutrition, the role of resilience in achieving long-term fitness goals, and how to optimise performance. With engaging anecdotes about races, the impact of diet on mental well-being, and practical advice for runners at all levels, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in ultra running and attaining a balanced lifestyle. You can find Chris's YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisBranch

Follow H-Hour on WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRAeu4opIrQElJN1belo33 **********

In 2006, 88 soldiers consisting mainly of paratroopers from 3 Para and two platoons of Royal Irish soldiers found themselves at the mercy of hundreds of Taliban in the town of Musa Qaleh, Helmand Province. Faced with relentless attacks from all directions, and a combination of direct and indirect weaponry, the vastly outnumbered troops held their ground in a set of low-walled buildings within the District Centre compound, for 56 days.

Jo Scrivener was the Company Sergeant Major.

Follow H-Hour on WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRAeu4opIrQElJN1belo33 ********** This is the Icebreaker episode, with questions chosen by H-Hour Platinum Subscribers and Patrons.

In 2006, 88 soldiers consisting mainly of paratroopers from 3 Para and two platoons of Royal Irish soldiers found themselves at the mercy of hundreds of Taliban in the town of Musa Qaleh, Helmand Province. Faced with relentless attacks from all directions, and a combination of direct and indirect weaponry, the vastly outnumbered troops held their ground in a set of low-walled buildings within the District Centre compound, for 56 days.

Jo Scrivener was the Company Sergeant Major.

Follow H-Hour on WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRAeu4opIrQElJN1belo33 ********** Lee Donaldson joins H-Hour to explore the intricacies of the film industry. From his directorial debut 'Jackal and Hyde' to his latest project 'Dead Zero', Lee delves into the challenges and opportunities within the world of filmmaking. He shares insights on the importance of practical effects, the realities of industry discrimination, and the role of psychology in character development. Lee also offers advice for aspiring filmmakers and discusses unique opportunities for fans and budding filmmakers to get involved in his projects. Perfect for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of the film industry, practical effects, and overcoming obstacles in creative endeavors. Catch the full episode now on Patreon, where you'll also find exclusive behind-the-scenes content and discussions. Find Lee on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/leeadartist/

Follow H-Hour on WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRAeu4opIrQElJN1belo33 ********** Howard St John Smith is the co-founder of a hugely successful rehabilitation clinic - Bali Beginnings This is a deeply personal and insightful conversation with Howard about addiction and recovery. Howard shares his struggle with addiction, his journey through recovery, and how hitting rock bottom led him to transformative change. Beyond addiction, Howard and Hugh explore the impact of childhood experiences, the value of support groups, and the importance of self-worth and vulnerability. Listeners will gain a profound understanding of the trials and triumphs of overcoming addiction and the power of introspection and community. Perfect for anyone interested in the intricacies of mental health, addiction recovery, or personal growth. Tune in for a raw and inspiring journey from darkness to light. https://rehabbali.com/